Craving a delicious, satisfying meal that won’t derail your healthy eating goals? Look no further than this Low Calorie Chicken Black Bean Brown Rice Burrito Bowl! Bursting with flavors and packed with wholesome ingredients, this vibrant dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious powerhouse. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delightful bowl that serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover how easy it is to create a Mexican-inspired masterpiece that will leave you coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice, cooked
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 avocado, diced
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook brown rice according to package instructions. Typically, combine 1 cup brown rice with 2 cups water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for about 45 minutes until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
- While rice is cooking, prepare the chicken. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then shred using two forks.
- Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly under cold water to remove excess sodium. Set aside.
- In a separate pan, lightly sauté the corn for 2-3 minutes to enhance its flavor, if desired. Otherwise, you can use corn directly from the can or frozen corn.
- Dice the avocado into small, uniform cubes. To prevent browning, you can sprinkle a little lime juice over the avocado pieces.
- Assemble the burrito bowl by first placing a base of cooked brown rice in each serving bowl.
- Layer the shredded chicken evenly over the rice, followed by black beans and corn.
- Spoon salsa over the ingredients, distributing it evenly across the bowl.
- Top with diced avocado and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the entire dish.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately while ingredients are still warm.
Tips
- Cook the Rice Perfectly: For fluffy brown rice, rinse it before cooking to remove excess starch. Use a ratio of 1 cup rice to 2 cups water, and remember to let it simmer covered for about 45 minutes for the best texture.
- Flavorful Chicken: Enhance the flavor of your chicken by marinating it in lime juice, garlic, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the meat with a zesty kick!
- Bean Preparation: Rinse your black beans thoroughly to cut down on sodium and enhance their flavor. You can also use canned beans for convenience, but always check for low-sodium options.
- Sauté the Corn: Lightly sautéing the corn for a few minutes can elevate its sweetness and flavor. If you prefer a quicker option, using canned or frozen corn works just fine!
- Avocado Tips: To keep your avocado fresh and vibrant, squeeze a little lime juice over the diced pieces right after cutting. This will prevent browning and add a zesty flavor.
- Layering is Key: When assembling your burrito bowl, layer the ingredients in the order of rice, chicken, beans, corn, and salsa to create a beautiful presentation and ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro! It adds a refreshing touch that brightens the entire dish. If you're not a fan, try substituting with green onions for a different flavor profile.
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve your burrito bowl immediately while everything is warm. This keeps the textures delightful and the flavors vibrant!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
